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(City of Kawartha Lakes, ON) | Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions | The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) have launched a formal investigation into a fatal two-vehicle collision that occurred on Highway 35 in Manvers Township late Saturday morning. Emergency crews were called to the scene just north of Ballyduff Road at approximately 11:00 a.m. The collision involved a passenger vehicle and a cargo van. Police have confirmed that the driver and sole occupant of the passenger vehicle, a 63-year-old resident of Lindsay, was pronounced deceased at the scene. The driver of the cargo van was transported to the hospital with minor injuries. As part of the formal investigation, the OPP’s Technical Collision Investigators and Reconstruction Unit attended the scene to examine evidence and determine the circumstances leading up to the collision. The cause has not yet been determined. A Message to the Community All of us at Small Town News extend our sincere condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones impacted by this tragic incident. Fatal collisions affect not only families but entire communities, and many residents are left with questions and grief following such events. Police Request Public Assistance OPP are asking anyone who may have witnessed the collision or who has dashcam footage from the area around the time of the incident to come forward. Anyone with information is asked to contact OPP at 1-888-310-1122. Those wishing to remain anonymous can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or submit a tip online. The investigation remains ongoing, and no further details are available at this time. To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup  or check out our other articles at www.smalltownproductions.org/news Link for Donations We’re proudly independent, with no corporate or political ties, just a commitment to truthful, fact-based reporting. Your support not only helps us stay free from outside influence but also allows us to give back to the communities we serve through meaningful coverage, outreach, and support where it matters most. If you value honest local journalism, please consider donating through the link below. Anything helps us keep you informed and make a real difference.   https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6

Residents across Trent Hills are being asked to weigh in on the municipality’s 2026 Draft Municipal Budget, which proposes a municipal tax increase that will be felt per $100,000 of property assessment. According to the draft budget presented to Council on December 18, 2025, municipal taxes are proposed to rise by $42.76 for every $100,000 of assessed property value. This represents a 4.63% increase at the assessment level, applying to municipal taxes only. County of Northumberland and education taxes are set separately and are not included in this figure. What the Increase Looks Like for Residents Municipal taxes in Trent Hills aren’t charged as a flat amount per household. Instead, they’re based on property assessment, meaning the increase scales with the value of a home or property. In simple terms: For every $100,000 of assessment, municipal taxes would rise by $42.76 Homes with higher assessed values would see a larger dollar increase Homes with lower assessed values would see a smaller increase, but at the same rate The municipality also notes that each 1% change in taxation equals approximately $173,000 in revenue across the community, helping show how assessment-based increases add up overall. Why Taxes Are Going Up The draft budget shows that overall municipal spending is proposed to increase from $27,530,749 in 2025 to $30,349,986 in 2026, an increase of $2,819,238. Some of the main cost pressures behind that increase include: Higher day-to-day operating costs, which are rising by $839,254 Employee wages increasing by $360,111 and employee benefits increasing by $271,238 OPP policing costs increasing by $280,864 Capital spending funded by taxes increasing by $536,699, a 23.74% jump Continued impacts from inflation, infrastructure needs, and required municipal planning work To help cover these costs, total municipal taxation revenue is proposed to rise by $1,109,086, moving from $17,325,999 to $18,435,085, an overall increase of 6.40%. Why This Matters to Households Because the increase is tied to assessment, there’s no single dollar figure that applies to every resident. Still, municipal taxes are a fixed cost of owning a home, and even moderate increases can be felt more sharply when combined with rising expenses like housing, utilities, groceries, fuel, and childcare. For families, seniors, and residents on fixed incomes, how and when these increases happen matters. Council Review and What Happens Next Under Ontario’s Strong Mayor Powers, Council has a limited window to amend the draft budget. If no changes are made within that timeframe, the budget will be deemed adopted. Final approval is expected in early January 2026. Have Your Say! Before the budget is finalized, Trent Hills residents are encouraged to share their opinion, especially on how the $42.76 increase per $100,000 of assessment affects their household. Residents can take part by: Commenting publicly on the budget discussion Filling out the municipality’s online budget feedback form Contacting their Trent Hills councillor from their ward directly to ask questions, raise concerns, or express support Municipal budgets shape local services and household costs, and public input can still influence final decisions. Questions for Community Members Is a $42.76 increase per $100,000 of assessment manageable for households in Trent Hills? Do the proposed spending priorities justify that increase? Are there areas where costs could be reduced or phased in? Residents are encouraged to make their voices heard before the budget is finalized. To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup  or check out our other articles at www.smalltownproductions.org/news Link for Donations We’re proudly independent, with no corporate or political ties, just a commitment to truthful, fact-based reporting. Your support not only helps us stay free from outside influence but also allows us to give back to the communities we serve through meaningful coverage, outreach, and support where it matters most. If you value honest local journalism, please consider donating through the link below. Anything helps us keep you informed and make a real difference.   https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6

The Quinte West City Council has officially approved a 4.99% municipal tax levy increase for 2026  following two days of Special Council budget deliberations held on December 11, 2025. The approved increase raises the City’s total municipal tax levy to $92.5 million  for the upcoming year. As a result, municipal taxes for Quinte West homeowners will increase, with the City estimating the change will amount to approximately $199 more per household per year . While individual tax bills may vary slightly depending on ward-specific services such as streetlighting and career firefighter coverage, the approved levy represents an overall increase in municipal taxes across the city. A major portion of the increase is tied to long-term infrastructure costs. The 2026 budget includes a 2.58% capital levy , which the City says is intended to help fund the replacement and maintenance of infrastructure such as roads and bridges. Another 1.66% of the tax increase  is allocated to external agencies to address rising costs related to policing and social services. The remaining portion of the increase supports municipal department budgets to maintain existing service levels. Included in the approved budget is $746,600  dedicated to supporting resident access to healthcare services , an area identified as a growing financial pressure. Residents can review the full budget and levy breakdown through the City’s budget page at: https://www.quintewest.ca/budget Have Your Say! With the 2026 municipal tax increase now officially approved, residents are encouraged to review the City’s budget details and consider how the changes may affect their household and community. What are your thoughts on the 4.99% tax increase? Do you feel the funding priorities align with local needs, or are there areas you believe should be handled differently? Join the conversation by sharing your perspective in the comments or by contacting your local councillor. To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup  or check out our other articles at www.smalltownproductions.org/news Link for Donations We’re proudly independent, with no corporate or political ties, just a commitment to truthful, fact-based reporting. Your support not only helps us stay free from outside influence but also allows us to give back to the communities we serve through meaningful coverage, outreach, and support where it matters most. If you value honest local journalism, please consider donating through the link below. Anything helps us keep you informed and make a real difference.   https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6

Updated: 9:52 PM Friday, December 12 | Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions | A band of lake-effect snow off Lake Ontario may develop late overnight, starting early Saturday morning, bringing localized snowfall and reduced visibility to parts of the region. Conditions are expected to improve by Saturday night. Areas That May Be Affected Communities near Belleville, including Belleville itself, Quinte West (Trenton), and surrounding areas along the Bay of Quinte, could see brief but impactful bursts of snow as the lake-enhanced band moves through. What To Expect Snowfall amounts: Local totals of 5 to 10 cm Visibility: Reduced at times, especially under heavier snow bands Timing Late overnight into Saturday morning Improving by Saturday afternoon/evening Travel Impacts Travel may become hazardous with rapidly changing conditions, particularly if a heavier band sets up over your area. Drivers should be prepared for sudden drops in visibility and snow-covered roads. How To Prepare: Slow down and increase following distance Allow extra travel time Saturday morning Ensure your vehicle is winter-ready Be alert for quickly deteriorating conditions Stay informed Continue monitoring Environment Canada alerts and forecasts, as lake-effect snow can shift quickly and affect nearby communities differently. Help us report conditions If you’re experiencing significant snowfall, poor visibility, or hazardous travel conditions, please share your photos or video with us at smalltownproductionscanada@gmail.com Please share this notice and help keep other members of our community informed and up to date on the latest weather forecast To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup  or check out our other articles at www.smalltownproductions.org/news Link for Donations We’re proudly independent, with no corporate or political ties, just a commitment to truthful, fact-based reporting. Your support not only helps us stay free from outside influence but also allows us to give back to the communities we serve through meaningful coverage, outreach, and support where it matters most. If you value honest local journalism, please consider donating through the link below. Anything helps us keep you informed and make a real difference.   https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6

| Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions | A snowfall warning is in effect for Muskoka as intense snow squalls off Georgian Bay are expected to bring significant winter weather to the region on Saturday due to the lake effect from surrounding bodies of water. Communities across Muskoka may see rapidly changing conditions as the system moves in, with snowfall becoming heavy at times. What’s Expected Forecasts indicate snowfall accumulations of 20 to 40 centimetres, with locally higher amounts possible in some areas. During peak periods, snowfall rates may reach 5 to 10 centimetres per hour. These conditions are expected to cause poor visibility, especially during heavier snow and periods of blowing snow, which could make travel difficult or hazardous. Timing The snowfall is expected to begin tonight or early Saturday morning and continue through Saturday night. Impact and Forecast Confidence Impact Level: High Forecast Confidence: High With confidence remaining strong and impacts expected to be significant, residents are encouraged to plan ahead and be prepared for rapidly changing winter conditions. What's Happening in Your Area? Winter weather can vary widely across the region. If you are experiencing heavy snowfall, reduced visibility, road closures, or difficult travel conditions in your area, we encourage you to share your updates. 📸 Photos or 🎥 video footage from your community help others stay informed and prepared. 📧 Send submissions to: smalltownproductionscanada@gmail.com As always, stay safe and use caution as winter conditions intensify across the Muskoka region. Please consider sharing this article to help keep others in the community informed and up to date on the latest forecast information To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup  or check out our other articles at www.smalltownproductions.org/news Link for Donations We’re proudly independent, with no corporate or political ties, just a commitment to truthful, fact-based reporting. Your support not only helps us stay free from outside influence but also allows us to give back to the communities we serve through meaningful coverage, outreach, and support where it matters most. If you value honest local journalism, please consider donating through the link below. Anything helps us keep you informed and make a real difference.   https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6

Time Issued: 6:14 am Tri-Board Student Transportation Services has cancelled all school bus and taxi transportation across its service area for Wednesday, December 10, 2025, as a result of current and forecasted inclement weather impacting multiple communities throughout Eastern Ontario. Despite the transportation shutdown, schools across the region will remain open. Families who choose to drive their children are reminded that pick-up at the end of the day will be required, as return transportation will not be available. This regional cancellation applies to students served by: Algonquin and Lakeshore Catholic District School Board Hastings and Prince Edward District School Board Limestone District School Board Whitney Public School Tri-Board notes that safety remains the guiding factor when making weather-related decisions, especially on days when road conditions are expected to worsen across both rural and urban routes. To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup  or check out our other articles at www.smalltownproductions.org/news Link for Donations We’re proudly independent, with no corporate or political ties, just a commitment to truthful, fact-based reporting. Your support not only helps us stay free from outside influence but also allows us to give back to the communities we serve through meaningful coverage, outreach, and support where it matters most. If you value honest local journalism, please consider donating through the link below. Anything helps us keep you informed and make a real difference.   https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6

| Small Town News | Small Town Productions | A yellow snowfall warning has been issued for several regions across eastern and central Ontario, with heavy snow and high winds expected to create challenging conditions from tonight into Wednesday afternoon. There is also a possibility of freezing rain in some areas. Affected areas include: Belleville Uxbridge Beaverton Northern Durham Region Tamworth Sydenham South Frontenac Stirling Tweed Madoc Orillia Lagoon City Washago Bancroft Hastings Highlands Denbigh Kaladar Bannockburn Bon Echo Park Fenelon Falls Balsam Lake Park Northern Kawartha Lakes Apsley Woodview Northern Peterborough County Lindsay Southern Kawartha Lakes Peterborough City Lakefield Southern Peterborough County Plevna Sharbot Lake Western Lanark County Environment officials report that 10 to 15 centimetres of snow may fall across the region, with periods of reduced visibility due to heavy bursts of snow and blowing snow. What to Expect • 10–15 cm of accumulating snow • Local blowing snow • Rapid drops in visibility during heavier bands Timing • Light snow continues this afternoon • A more significant snowfall will start this evening • Snow tapers off west to east Wednesday afternoon This system is being driven by an Alberta clipper, known for delivering fast-moving but intense winter weather. Travel Conditions Will Be Challenging Drivers and pedestrians should expect difficult conditions overnight going into Wednesday afternoon: • Roads and sidewalks will likely become snow-covered and slippery • Blowing snow may create near-whiteout conditions in exposed areas • Commuters may experience slower travel and reduced visibility Taking extra caution, slowing down, and planning additional time on the roads is strongly recommended. Share What’s Happening in Your Area Do you have a significant weather event happening where you are? We encourage residents across our communities to help keep each other informed by sharing what you’re seeing. If it’s safe to do so, please send us your photos or video footage of the storm to smalltownproductionscanada@gmail.com Your contributions help neighbours, families, and local travellers stay aware of changing conditions, especially in rural areas where updates can be harder to find. Thank you for helping us keep our communities connected and informed. To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup  or check out our other articles at www.smalltownproductions.org/news Link for Donations We’re proudly independent, with no corporate or political ties, just a commitment to truthful, fact-based reporting. Your support not only helps us stay free from outside influence but also allows us to give back to the communities we serve through meaningful coverage, outreach, and support where it matters most. If you value honest local journalism, please consider donating through the link below. Anything helps us keep you informed and make a real difference.   https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6

Link to Travel Advisory | Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions | Canada is warning that the situation in Niger has become extremely dangerous , with instability, armed conflicts, and security threats affecting nearly every region of the country. According to the latest federal travel advisory, the environment in Niger is volatile, unpredictable, and hostile , prompting the government to issue its strongest alert: Avoid all travel . This follows ongoing political turmoil since a 2023 military coup , a surge in terrorist activity , and widespread armed crime . Combined, these factors have created conditions that make safe travel nearly impossible, even in major cities. What Is Happening in Niger Right Now The country is facing several overlapping crises: Political Instability Niger continues to experience fallout from the July 2023 coup. Government structures are unstable, large areas remain heavily guarded, and essential services may be disrupted at any time. Elevated Threat of Terrorism Armed extremist groups are active throughout the country, and attacks, including bombings, kidnappings, and ambushes, are considered likely. These threats extend into areas once considered more secure. Widespread Crime Carjackings, armed robberies, banditry, and assaults are common, especially outside the capital. Travel on rural roads is particularly dangerous. Limited Support for Foreign Nationals Canada notes that its ability to assist citizens in Niger is extremely limited , meaning anyone who encounters danger may not be able to receive timely help. What This Means for Travellers The Government of Canada is clear: Do not travel to Niger under any circumstances. For those currently in the country, the recommendation is equally strong to leave as soon as it is safe to do so, using commercial means. Here’s what travellers need to consider: Personal Safety Cannot Be Guaranteed The combination of terrorism, banditry, and political unrest makes movement in Niger highly dangerous. Even short-distance travel or routine outings can carry significant risk. 2. Medical, Emergency, and Consular Support Are Limited Local healthcare systems may not meet emergency needs, and Canada’s ability to intervene is restricted. Travellers may find themselves without reliable access to treatment, evacuation, or legal assistance. 3. Road Travel Is Hazardous Road conditions are frequently poor, unlit, and unsafe. Attacks and armed robberies on highways are well-documented and can occur without warning. 4. Health Risks Are Higher Diseases such as malaria, dengue, hepatitis A, and water-borne illnesses are common. Poor sanitation and limited clean-water access increase illness risks for travellers. 5. Supply Shortages Are Possible Food, fuel, medication, and essential goods may be difficult to obtain, especially during periods of unrest or road blockages. If You Are Already in Niger Leave the country as soon as it is safely possible. Avoid all unnecessary movement, especially at night. Keep emergency supplies (water, food, medicine, cash) on hand. Stay away from protests, government buildings, and large gatherings. Monitor local news and official advisories closely. Travel advisories like this are not made lightly. They are issued to protect Canadians and to ensure individuals understand the seriousness of the situation before making travel decisions. If you or someone you know has ties to Niger, sharing updates like this can help ensure everyone stays informed and safe. To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup  or check out our other articles at www.smalltownproductions.org/news Link for Donations We’re proudly independent, with no corporate or political ties, just a commitment to truthful, fact-based reporting. Your support not only helps us stay free from outside influence but also allows us to give back to the communities we serve through meaningful coverage, outreach, and support where it matters most. If you value honest local journalism, please consider donating through the link below. Anything helps us keep you informed and make a real difference.   https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6

| Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions | The Kingston Police are alerting the community to a concerning scam that has recently surfaced in the area and may continue to increase as the holiday season approaches. Reports show that individuals posing as taxi or rideshare drivers are targeting unsuspecting residents using a highly deceptive method designed to steal bank cards and access victims’ accounts. According to police, scammers often operate in pairs. One pretends to be the taxi driver while the other acts as a passenger in need of help. The vehicle may appear legitimate, using stolen or imitation taxi lights and even Ontario license plates to improve credibility. Police say the scam typically unfolds when the fake passenger approaches someone nearby claiming the taxi will not accept cash for a small fare. They offer the victim cash in exchange for paying the fare with their debit card. When the victim inserts their card into a modified point of sale terminal, the scammers capture the card’s PIN. At the same time, the scammers hand the victim cash while secretly swapping the real debit card with either a fake card or a card stolen from another victim. With the correct PIN, the scammers can then withdraw funds or make purchases at ATMs and local convenience stores. In many cases, victims do not realize their cards have been switched until hours later. Police urge members of the public to remain cautious around unfamiliar vehicles, especially those claiming to operate as taxis or rideshare services. Simple awareness can prevent significant financial loss and help keep others in the community safe. Anyone who believes they have been targeted or impacted by this scam is encouraged to contact Kingston Police at 613 549 4660 ext “0” or submit an online report at www.kingstonpolice.ca Together, we can make the community safer To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup  or check out our other articles at www.smalltownproductions.org/news Link for Donations We’re proudly independent, with no corporate or political ties, just a commitment to truthful, fact-based reporting. Your support not only helps us stay free from outside influence but also allows us to give back to the communities we serve through meaningful coverage, outreach, and support where it matters most. If you value honest local journalism, please consider donating through the link below. Anything helps us keep you informed and make a real difference.   https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6

Link to Consolidated Fees and Charges Document: https://citybellevilleon.civicweb.net/document/106854/Consolidated%20Fees%20and%20Charges%20By-Law.pdf?handle=F19381B5193646AEA4315C765BAD797D The City of Belleville has released its proposed 2026 Consolidated Fees & Charges By-Law, outlining adjustments across many everyday services that residents, families, and local businesses rely on. Although these updates occur annually, they can impact the cost of living in very real and practical ways, from registering a child in sports to parking downtown, licensing a pet, or applying for a zoning change. If approved, the new fees would take effect January 1, 2026 . Below is a community-focused look at some of the most significant exact fee changes , pulled directly from the report. Key Exact Fee Changes for 2026 Animal Control — For Pet-Owning Families Rising costs in animal control affect many households: Kennel Licence Fee:  $62 → $150 Dog Tag – Intact (purchased in licensing year):  $26 → $50 Dog Tag – Spayed/Neutered:  $21 → $30 Replacement Tag:  $5.20 → $10.00 For families with pets, these increases may feel noticeable, especially if budgeting month-to-month. Parking — For Workers, Shoppers & Downtown Visitors Parking adjustments influence anyone who works or shops downtown: Meters:  $1/hr → $1.50/hr Monthly Lot Permits:  $65 → $95 Daily Permits:  $9 → $12 Whether you commute daily or visit occasionally, parking changes shape how affordable and accessible the downtown core feels. Community Services — Where Families Spend Much of Their Time Arenas & Event Rentals Many local families rely on arena programming, especially sports groups: Prime Time Adult Ice:  $200.75 → $216.75 Minor Sports Prime Time:  $174.50 → $181.50 Floor Rental – Adults:  $98.25 → $119.75 CAA Arena Ice-In Day Rental:  $4,558.50 → $5,105.50 New additions like Stage ($700)  and Event Floor – Private ($3,500)  reflect expanded programming options but come at a higher price. Fitness, Skating & Camps For parents planning programs in 2026: Learn to Skate (per 25-min):  $10.50 → $11.25 Day Camps (per day):  $39.25 → $41.00 Adult Fitness Hourly:  $9 → $9.50 Private Skate Lessons:  $26.50 → $28.00 Even small changes can add up over the year for families with multiple children in programs. Pools — A Popular Community Hub Pool rentals and swims also see increases: Main Pool – Prime:  $206.00 → $222.50 Main Pool – Non-Prime:  $191.25 → $206.50 Lane Rental:  $18.25 → $19.75 Extra Lifeguard:  $27.75 → $28.75 Recreational swims now cost: Child/Youth:  $4.25 → $4.50 Adult:  $5.25 → $5.50 For many families, swimming is one of the most affordable activities — making even modest increases meaningful. Sports Fields — A Major Shift in 2026 Because field lining and maintenance are now included in the rates, some fees rise sharply: A Field – Adult:  $11.50 → $25.00 A Field – Youth:  $8.75 → $21.50 B Field – Adult:  $10.00 → $23.25 B Field – Youth:  $7.50 → $20.25 A new Cricket Field rate  appears at $31.25  per hour. These increases will impact local sports leagues, youth teams, and community tournaments. Corporate Services — Everyday Administrative Costs Several services that residents commonly use also change: Marriage Licence:  $150 → $160 Burial Permit – In Town:  $10 → $30 Burial Permit – Out of Town:  $15 → $30 Noise By-Law Exemption:  now a combined $250 Barber/Hair/Beauty Salon Licence:  $25 → $50 Driving School/Instructor Licence:  $75 → $125 Short-term rental regulations also rise: Annual Renewal:  $300 → $500 Owner-Occupied New Application:   $500 These fees affect small businesses, homeowners converting spaces, and families planning weddings or handling estate matters. Planning — For Builders, Developers & Growing Families Planning fees affect everything from home additions to large subdivisions: Official Plan Amendment – Commercial (>4,000 m²): $9,050 → $9,510 Zoning By-Law Amendment – Other: $6,680 → $7,020 Combined OP + Zoning Amendment – Commercial: $14,320 → $15,040 Consent (new lot): $2,700 → $2,840 Minor Variance – Other: $1,250 → $1,320 Cash-in-Lieu of Parking: $4,300/space → $4,420/space Housing growth, redevelopment, and small renovations all intersect with these fees. Why This Matters for Our Community Whether you're a parent signing your child up for hockey, a senior attending fitness classes, a worker parking downtown, a homeowner caring for a pet, or a business owner planning to expand, municipal fees touch nearly every part of daily life . City staff emphasize that these updates help reflect real service costs and ensure a balanced mix of fees and taxation. But for many families and residents, even moderate increases can affect annual budgets. What Are Your Thoughts? Do these increases feel manageable? Are there areas you feel should remain more affordable for the community? How might these changes impact your household, your business, or your activities in 2026? Share your thoughts — these decisions affect all of us, and community input matters. To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup  or check out our other articles at www.smalltownproductions.org/news Link for Donations We’re proudly independent, with no corporate or political ties, just a commitment to truthful, fact-based reporting. Your support not only helps us stay free from outside influence but also allows us to give back to the communities we serve through meaningful coverage, outreach, and support where it matters most. If you value honest local journalism, please consider donating through the link below. Anything helps us keep you informed and make a real difference.   https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6

| Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions | The Peterborough Police Service is asking for the public’s assistance in locating 13-year-old Brooke, who was reported missing early Tuesday morning after failing to return home. Brooke was last seen on Monday, December 1st, at approximately 5:30 p.m. in the area of 572 Crystal Drive. Despite extensive efforts, officers have not yet been able to locate her. Police have provided the following description to assist in the search: Female, 13 Brown hair Brown eyes Slim build She was last seen wearing a black coat, white Nike shoes, black leggings, hair down, hoop earrings, and makeup done Anyone with information that may help locate Brooke is asked to contact the Peterborough Police Service at 705-876-1122 ext. 225. Anonymous tips can be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at www.stopcrimehere.ca. Please keep an eye out for Brooke; her family and the police are concerned about her safety. Please consider sharing Brooke’s information and this article. Every share counts when it comes to helping bring Brooke home. To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup  or check out our other articles at www.smalltownproductions.org/news Link for Donations We’re proudly independent, with no corporate or political ties, just a commitment to truthful, fact-based reporting. Your support not only helps us stay free from outside influence but also allows us to give back to the communities we serve through meaningful coverage, outreach, and support where it matters most. If you value honest local journalism, please consider donating through the link below. Anything helps us keep you informed and make a real difference.   https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6

| Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions | Quinte West has proposed a 4.99% tax levy increase for 2026. The draft budget is still under review, with council scheduled to examine it during special meetings on December 10–11, where residents will also have an opportunity to share their feedback. The proposed increase is intended to help the city keep up with rising service demands, infrastructure pressures, and provincial funding limitations. According to staff, this year’s financial plan attempts to maintain essential services and invest in long-term infrastructure while avoiding the need to take on new debt. To help manage overall costs, the city’s budget outlines several contributing factors, including: An estimated $835,000 in added revenue from assessment growth Around $731,000 in savings tied to Ontario’s transition to a producer-led recycling system Additional support through the Ontario Community Infrastructure Fund More precise cost-recovery processes for shared capital and water/wastewater services City officials say these measures work together to help reduce the overall impact of the levy increase while supporting programs and infrastructure that residents rely on. Residents are encouraged to participate by submitting comments to the city clerk or by speaking at the upcoming budget sessions. What are your thoughts? Do you view a 4.99% increase as a reasonable step in today’s climate, or should the city look for deeper cuts to lessen the impact on taxpayers? Please leave a comment below and let us know what you think 💬 To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup  or check out our other articles at www.smalltownproductions.org/news Link for Donations We’re proudly independent, with no corporate or political ties, just a commitment to truthful, fact-based reporting. Your support not only helps us stay free from outside influence but also allows us to give back to the communities we serve through meaningful coverage, outreach, and support where it matters most. If you value honest local journalism, please consider donating through the link below. Anything helps us keep you informed and make a real difference.   https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6